This was one of the best books that I have read in a long time. Reading it was like watching a movie unfold before your eyes. It was the first book that I have read that I found myself weeping so that I could not see to read. I would rate it even higher if possible!

This book which is set in the Smoky Mountains in the 1920's, is full of historical details and atmosphere. He gets the "voice" of the time and place just right and the reader can picture the scenes in their mind. If you like stories similar to the Christie series by Catherine Marshall then you will love this book and this series. It is wholesome and yet realistic. Read it...and love it

Walt Larimore has written a book that will transport you back in time to an era and a place where people believed in right and wrong, marriages were forever, men treated women with respect, and family was all important. Reading this book made me ache for such a time, rather than today's society where families are splintered and nobody seems to believe in morals. Larimore has created absolutely beautiful characters, and I especially loved reading about Nathan, a man's man who loves his wife and children with tenderness, defends them from evil, stands up for what is right. The children are simply delightful, and I felt like cheering when young Corrie stood up to the bully of a teacher in front of the whole class! Their innocence and their adventuresome ways left me smiling more than once, and the characters are so true-to-life I felt an actual fondness for them, and grieved alongside them during their time of loss. The conclusion is perfect, a clash of good and evil that resolves in a wholly-satisfying way, and yet still hints at more drama to come in future books. I was truly sorry to see the story end and can't wait to find out what happens next!

Prepare to leave Hazel Creek feeling deeply satisfied, and inspired to act with courage and dignity like these characters of old. If you are looking for a highly enjoyable, historical novel, then Hazel Creek should be on your "must buy" list. I highly recommend this wonderful book and give it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Book was provided courtesy of the publisher for the purposes of this unbiased review.